Fratricidal struggle in Central Africa

December 19, 2013

Religion is manipulated for political ends, according to Bishop Nestor Nongo-Aziagba SMA, Bishop of Bossangoa, the town in the west of the Central African Republic, where despite the presence of French troops, looting continues, houses are burnt and violence against civilians continue.

“Two armed groups are fighting each other”, said the Bishop. “On the one hand the Seleka and on the other, the anti Balaka. Although the characteristic of these movements may suggest a religious conflict between Muslims and Christians, it is first of all a fratricidal struggle among Central Africans”.

Bishop Nongo-Aziagba insists “on the restoration of State authority throughout the territory”, and the end of impunity in order to get Central Africa out of the worst crisis in its history. Finally, one should highlight the competition for the control of the natural resources in Central Africa, such as diamonds and uranium, carried out by external actors that fuel the ongoing conflict, by supporting the various warring factions.

With thanks to FIDES, the Vatican News Agency

The latest news from Bangui comes from Human Rights Watch which accuses all sides of engaging in war crimes and crimes against humanity. Read it here.